Put your Money Where Your Heart Is

Tracy Brala '90

As a high school student looking for the perfect college, Tracy Setlock Brala ’90 VSB fell in love with Villanova University. The sense of community, rigorous academic preparation, the Augustinian mission, the service opportunities, the campus, the activities, the athletics — it all felt just right.

During her college career, Villanova truly became “home.”

Now president-elect of the Alumni Association, Tracy is still “in love with Villanova.” But as she will tell you, she is not alone. As she travels the country meeting alumni, one common theme emerges: Villanovans love Villanova. They credit their Villanova experience with shaping them personally and professionally.

“This is part of the Villanova legacy,” she says. “Your years here change you. They challenge you. They inspire you.”

Today, Tracy wants to ensure that that legacy is secure for future Villanovans. She works tirelessly on behalf of the Alumni Association, mentors current students — even opening her home to them for dinners and other events — and she helps alumni to reconnect to the exciting developments on campus.

Almost to a person, Tracy says, alumni want to help Villanova — to give back in ways great or small. She knows just how they can do that — and isn’t shy telling them: “Put your money where your heart is.”

“Villanova needs our financial support,” Tracy says. “It’s vital that we all dig deep and support the campaign and all that it represents, ensuring that Villanova will continue to produce people who lead with vision, integrity and creativity, and that the best and brightest students have an opportunity to fall in love with Villanova — just like we did.”